For many students, a typical schedule consists of attending class, studying for tests and finishing homework assignments.
Still, many find time in their schedule to partake in activities that do not involve any academic commitments. Whether it’s to eat dinner with a friend or attend a meeting for one of the various organizations on campus, students are often able to find free time that they are hoping to fill. On the other hand, some students have yet to find an organization to commit their time to.
This Wednesday representatives of Huntsville non-profit organizations will be at the Volunteer Opportunities Fair. All students, faculty and staff seeking a chance to give back to the community in their free time are urged to attend.
Senior Brittany Serpas has been involved as a volunteer for food drives and soup kitchens in her Houston neighborhood for a number of years, and has also been the leader for her church’s Vacation Bible School program. The program, which is typically taught over the course of a week during the summer, focuses on strengthening religious education and relationships for youth.
“I’ve really enjoyed what I do, and I wish more people would volunteer in their own communities,” said Serpas. “It’s your chance to give back to people in need who may be less fortunate than you are, and I feel that it really gives you a sense of what other people are going through.”
For senior Amanda Dill, who spent time working with Wings Over Houston, volunteering was a way to interact with her peers in a different environment.
“It’s interesting to try working with people I was in an educational classroom with,” said Dill.
The Volunteer Opportunities Fair, hosted by Student Activities, will be held in the Lowman Student Center, room 320, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“Volunteering is a no-lose situation,” said Dill. “You can socialize and meet new people. On top of that, you’re exposed to new experiences and it helps you become more aware of your community.”
A number of diverse organizations will be represented at the Volunteer Opportunities Fair, including the Meals on Wheels Program, the Boys and Girls Club of Walker County and City of Huntsville Recreational Services.
“I have always enjoyed volunteering,” said Serpas. “Many people don’t realize that, sometimes, all people need is for someone to show that they care.”